Topic One (1.1): About the CPU and Inside a Digital Device

Topics Icon.png Objectives for this topic

By the end of this topic, you should be able to:

  • describe a CPU;
  • describe the basic internal components of a device, including CPU, cache and RAM.

You might also be able to:

  • discuss the impact of varying components within the CPU.

Introduction Icon.png Introduction

You may be surprised to find that computers haven’t really changed in 70 years. John von Neumann drafted a paper in 1945 which first described the concept of storing a program and its attendant data within the same memory units. All modern general-purpose computers can trace their essential components back to this design. In this topic, you will learn about modern CPUs – including all of the individual parts; spare a bit of your mind for the engineers who dreamed these ideas up in the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

Interact Icon.png Working through your coursebook

Read pages 8—13 in your Computing Stage 9 book.

  • Make sure you understand the scenario on page 9.
  • The keywords in blue on pages 8, 9, 10 and 11 are useful not just for within this topic, but throughout the module and even the whole subject.
  • Watch the video below on how to make flashcards using Cram.com

(Note: if the video looks blurry, you can select a higher bandwidth by clicking on the cog symbol on the bottom right of the video. You can also make it full screen by clicking on the double-headed arrow next to the cog symbol.)

  • Add in the words and definitions. You will add to these flashcards throughout the course.
  • Read the scenario on page 9.
  • Make sure you have the skills in the Do You Remember? box on page 10.
  • Read the Learn box on pages 11-12. Pay particular attention to the purple boxes, as these correct some misconceptions.
  • Complete the Practise box on page 13. If you don’t have a partner to work with, carry out the research on your own and send your tutor a short message with your thoughts on the final bullet point. 

Review Icon.png Review

Reflect upon the pages you have just covered. In your notes, summarise:

  • what you have learnt;
  • what you already knew;
  • what surprised you;
  • what you are curious to know more about.

Bridge Icon.png  Support activity for this topic

Watch this video discussing cores versus speed:

 

Stretch Icon.png Extension activity for this topic

Watch this video exploring a bit more about how multiple cores work: